Summarise entitlement and provision for early years’ education (Refer to Childcare Act 2006 and Every Child matters) (1.1)

From 0-5 years the framework of learning, development & care forms the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), which has four guiding principles:

• The Unique Child. Every Child is a competent learner from birth, who can be resilient, capable, confident and self-assured

• Positive relationships. Children learn to be strong and independent from a base of loving and secure relationships with parents, carers and or a key person

• Enabling environments. The environment plays a key role in supporting and extending children’s development and learning.

• Learning and development. Children develop and learn in different ways and at different rates. All areas of learning and development are equally important and interconnected.

In line with the Every Child Matters agenda and the Childcare Act of 2006 all children in England and Wales are entitled to free part time early year’s education between the ages of 3 and 4 which becomes effective the term after their 3rd birthday. This entitlement extends to 15 hours per week over 38 weeks per year and is funded by the Government for up to 2 years before a child joins school as a rising 5. Any additional hours required for individual children have to be contributed to by their parents or carers. Early years have to be fully inclusive & cater for the needs of all children including those with special educational needs.